Accommodation Highlights

See Other Highlights of Rwanda

Akagera

Why visit Akagera

In July 2015, seven lions were reintroduced to Akagera, under the auspices of African Parks

Open savannah and rolling hills offer the perfect safari extension

Bordering Tanzania, with open acacia woodland, this is excellent birding country

Spectacularly diverse mix of lakes, marshes and open woodland

Boat trips on Lake Ihema even allow you to indulge in a spot of fishing

A little more about Akagera

Akagera could not be more different to the dramatic, cultivated hills that distinguish much of the country, offering a wonderful savannah contrast. Dominated by a maze of swamps and lakes that follow the meandering path of the Akagera River, the beautiful undulating plains, acacia woodland and rolling grasslands are home to big game - although not in the numbers found in other East African parks. That said, elephants and buffalo, hyena, giraffe and the occasional leopard can all be seen. An exciting new addition to Akagera's four legged fauna is the reintroduction of lions to the national park. Five females and two male lions were translocated from South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal, chosen for their reproductive potential. This is a project managed by African Parks and is a part of a larger effort to promote conservation in Akagera and restore the park to its pre-genocide state, where lions and other big game flourished.

The mix of habitat and scenery here, coupled with the distinct lack of other tourists makes Akagera very appealing for those wanting an extended holiday in Rwanda. The country’s second largest lake is located here offering a chance to take to the water for some fun boat based safaris and fishing to compliment night drives.

Beyond the Ordinary

Meet with African Park's staff to learn more about their conservation efforts and track collared lions, reintroduced to Akagera after a 20 year absence.